Single Point Anchor with Backup

The first anchor setup we need to understand is the single-point anchor. This is one of the most common anchor types used in field operations, often seen in rope rescue, slackline rigging, or even temporary load handling systems in parks, wooded terrain, or rocky outcrops.

It’s straightforward: you find a single, solid, permanent object — like a large tree, utility post, or boulder — and build your anchor directly off of that one point.

But to do it right, we need to build both the main anchor and a backup system to protect against failure, limit extension, and reduce the risk of shock loading.

Step 1: Choosing the Anchor Point

The anchor object should meet the following criteria:

• Solid and immovable: A live, healthy tree with a thick trunk or a fully embedded boulder is ideal.

• Stable in all directions: No risk of rolling, breaking, or shifting under load.

• Accessible: You need space to rig your slings, connect your hardware, and check it under tension.

Once selected, this becomes the base of your main anchor.

Step 2: Building the Main Anchor

To build the main anchor, we typically use a spanset or industrial round sling. Here’s how:

1. Wrap the spanset around the tree or anchor point using a basket or wrap-around configuration.

2. Ensure the sling is evenly distributed around the anchor, without twists or overlap.

3. Connect the two ends using a strong connector — usually a shackle or auto-locking carabiner.

4. This creates your master connection point where the main system can be attached.

Tip: The use of a shackle helps distribute the load and makes removal easier after the system has been tensioned.

Step 3: Adding the Backup Anchor

A backup anchor adds redundancy in case the main anchor fails. It also helps limit extension and reduce shock loads that could occur if the main point fails under tension.

To build a backup:

1. Use static rope, webbing, or another rated sling.

2. Wrap it around the same anchor object, then tie it into the master point of the main anchor.

3. Ensure this backup line is tight and secure, but not bearing load unless the main anchor fails.

4. Use reliable knots like:

   • Triple Fisherman’s

   • Water knot (for webbing)

   • Or sewn termination if using commercial slings

The goal is to catch the system quickly and softly if the main anchor breaks — without a massive jolt or long drop that could harm the load or rescuer.

Step 4: Managing Extension and Shock Load

One of the biggest risks in anchor failure is extension — the sudden increase in system length that can shock-load every part of the system and cause further failure.

To reduce this:

• Keep your backup line tight, not loose or slack.

• Avoid excessive distance between the main anchor and backup tie-in point.

• Ensure the material you use is strong and stretch-resistant (avoid dynamic rope or loose cordage).

This minimizes how far the system can fall if the main anchor gives way.

Step 5: Padding and Abrasion Protection

Tree and rock anchors almost always create abrasion points where slings or ropes bend and rub over rough surfaces.

You must pad these areas before applying load. Common abrasion zones include:

• Where the sling leaves the tree and angles downward toward the system.

• Sharp bark, sticks, or roots that can dig into your anchor material.

• Any edge or corner where contact pressure is high.

Use webbing pads, canvas, or purpose-built rope protection sleeves to prevent rope or sling damage during operation.

Critical Thinking: Always inspect your environment. Don’t just look at the anchor object — check the surrounding area, ground stability, and nearby terrain for anything that could pose a threat under load.

Final Anchor Check

Before you load the system, review the following:

• Is the main anchor strong and bombproof?

• Is the backup tight and secure, limiting shock or movement?

• Are all connectors locked and loaded correctly?

• Have all abrasion points been padded or cleared?

• Is the system symmetrical and clean, avoiding twist or tension imbalance?

Taking a few extra minutes during anchor setup saves time — and prevents serious failure — once the system is under full load.

Summary: Single Point Anchor with Backup

A single-point anchor is built off one strong, permanent object like a large tree or boulder. Using a spanset or sling, the anchor is created with a clean wrap and a solid master point connection.

To ensure safety and system integrity:

• A backup anchor is added using rope or webbing tied into the same master point.

• The backup must be tight to reduce extension and limit shock loading if the main anchor fails.

• Padding is placed at all friction points to prevent sling damage.

This method is common, efficient, and reliable — as long as it’s built with attention to detail. Whether you’re in a park, canyon, forest, or industrial site, this type of anchor gives you a fast, secure foundation for rope-based operations.

Peace on your Days

Lance